CoffeeGearHub Tools
Grind Size Calculator
This free grind size calculator helps you choose the right coffee grind size for espresso, pour-over, drip coffee, French press, AeroPress, moka pot, and cold brew.
Interactive grind size calculator
Find the Right Coffee Grind Size
Choose your brew method and the taste problem you are trying to fix. The tool gives you a recommended starting grind size and a simple adjustment direction.
Recommended starting point
Fine grind
Adjustment: Start fine for espresso, then adjust by shot taste and flow.
Why: Espresso needs a fine grind because water passes through the coffee quickly under pressure.
If the shot runs too fast or tastes sour, grind finer. If it runs too slow or tastes bitter, grind coarser.
How to Use the Grind Size Calculator
Use the Grind Size Calculator by selecting your brew method and the taste problem you are trying to fix. The tool gives you a recommended starting grind size and a simple adjustment direction, such as grinding finer for sour coffee or coarser for bitter coffee.
After choosing your grind size, use the Coffee Ratio Calculator to estimate how much coffee and water to use for your brew method.
Quick Coffee Grind Size Chart
Use this chart as a starting point. Your exact setting will depend on your grinder, coffee freshness, filter type, and recipe.
| Brew Method | Starting Grind Size | Common Adjustment |
| Espresso | Fine | Finer if sour, coarser if bitter or slow |
| Moka Pot | Fine to medium-fine | Coarser if harsh, finer if thin |
| AeroPress | Medium-fine to medium | Adjust based on brew time |
| Pour-Over | Medium-fine | Finer if fast/sour, coarser if slow/bitter |
| Drip Coffee Maker | Medium | Finer if weak, coarser if bitter |
| French Press | Coarse | Coarser if muddy or gritty |
| Cold Brew | Extra-coarse | Coarser if harsh, longer steep if weak |
Need a Better Grinder?
For a deeper explanation of grind settings, read the coffee grind size guide on CoffeeGearHub.com. If your grinder creates inconsistent grounds, compare the best burr coffee grinders for better control.
What is a grind size calculator?
A grind size calculator is a coffee tool that helps you choose a starting grind size based on your brew method and taste problem. It can suggest whether to grind finer, grind coarser, or adjust your recipe based on how the coffee tastes.
What grind size should I use for pour-over?
Start with a medium-fine grind for pour-over. If the coffee tastes sour or drains too quickly, grind finer. If it tastes bitter or drains too slowly, grind coarser.
What grind size should I use for French press?
Use a coarse grind for French press. A coarse grind helps reduce sludge and prevents the coffee from becoming muddy or overly bitter.
Does sour coffee mean I should grind finer?
Usually, yes. Sour coffee often means under-extraction, and grinding finer can help extract more flavor. If the coffee then becomes bitter or the brew slows too much, move slightly coarser.
Does bitter coffee mean I should grind coarser?
Usually, yes. Bitter coffee often means over-extraction, and grinding coarser can help reduce harshness. You may also need to shorten brew time or use slightly cooler water.
Is a burr grinder better than a blade grinder?
Yes. A burr grinder produces more consistent particles, which makes it easier to control extraction and repeat a good brew. Blade grinders create uneven particles that can make coffee taste bitter, sour, and muddy at the same time.